Hi Chris,

"Dependent" is not meant/used pejoratively, whereas "addictive" is. The two words do not mean the same thing, and should not be used interchangably, though they often are by those who don't know/understand the difference.

Briefly:

Dependence is what it is—the body adapts to the presence of a medication—becoming dependent on it—which abrupt cessation or reduction of results in physical withdrawal.

Addiction is the compulsive use and craving of a substance despite harmful consequences.

Insulin is, IMO, a special case. Type 1 Diabetes was formerly known as "insulin-dependent" diabetes. While cessation of medications that produce dependence will result in physical withdrawal, cessation of insulin for many Type 1 Diabetics may mean death.

Doc